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Indian PM arrives in Israel for high-stakes two-day trip
Narendra Modi landed in Israel on Wednesday for his first visit since the Gaza conflict erupted, aiming to reinforce bilateral ties while navigating regional sensitivities. The trip includes a Knesset address and talks with top Israeli leaders, though no meetings with Palestinian officials are scheduled.
Diplomatic balancing act
Modi's visit underscores India's efforts to maintain strong relations with Israel while managing its broader Middle East partnerships. Analysts note the timing-amid heightened regional tensions-tests New Delhi's ability to walk this tightrope.
India has condemned the October 7 Hamas attacks and expressed solidarity with Israel but has also voiced concerns over Gaza civilian casualties and reaffirmed support for a two-state solution. Foreign affairs expert Harsh V. Pant described the trip as a signal of India's "commitment to its Israel partnership" while "balancing priorities" in the region.
Strategic ties take center stage
Defense, technology, and trade dominate the agenda, with both nations seeking to deepen cooperation. Israel is a key arms supplier to India, and the two countries collaborate closely on counterterrorism and innovation. Netanyahu hailed the visit as "historic," calling the India-Israel bond a "powerful alliance" built on shared strategic goals.
"The bond between Israel and India is a powerful alliance between two global leaders. We are partners in innovation, security, and a shared strategic vision."
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
Modi reciprocated, stating India "deeply values the enduring friendship with Israel, built on trust, innovation, and a shared commitment to peace."
Controversy shadows Knesset address
Modi's speech to Israel's parliament has sparked political friction. Opposition lawmakers threatened to boycott the event unless Supreme Court President Isaac Amit is invited, citing his exclusion amid a dispute over judicial reforms. The Knesset Speaker reportedly plans to fill empty seats with former lawmakers.
In India, opposition figures criticized the visit. Congress party spokesperson Jairam Ramesh accused the Modi government of "abandoning the Palestinian cause." Despite the backlash, analysts frame the trip as a strategic move.
Kabir Taneja of the Observer Research Foundation noted, "India's indigenous defense technology still lags in critical areas, particularly as warfare evolves. With tensions involving Pakistan and China, India cannot afford to overlook Israel's advanced technological capabilities."
Regional stability at stake
While bilateral engagement remains the focus, regional tensions loom. The U.S. has bolstered its military presence in the Middle East amid threats of action against Iran, raising fears of wider conflict. However, discussions on these issues are expected to stay behind closed doors, reflecting India's longstanding policy of non-interference.
"India recognized Palestine in 1988, and politically, much has been done," Taneja said. "Regional conflicts are for the region to resolve-just as India opposes external interference in its own matters."
Symbolism and substance
Modi's arrival at Ben-Gurion Airport was marked by a ceremonial welcome from Netanyahu, followed by preliminary talks before their departure for Jerusalem. Ahead of the visit, the Knesset was illuminated in India's tricolor, with Modi sharing the image on social media and expressing eagerness to address lawmakers.
The trip reflects India's calculated approach to diplomacy in a volatile region, prioritizing strategic interests while striving to avoid alienating key Middle Eastern partners.
